Around 500 people will have the opportunity of being part of the first passenger sailing for Spirit of Tasmania III when she travels from Hobart to Devonport on Friday 2 January 2004.

Tasmanian Premier Jim Bacon announced today that Spirit of Tasmania III would be completing a special sailing schedule in the lead up to the new vessel's inaugural voyage from Sydney on 13 January 2004.

"Spirit III's first passenger sailing will depart from Hobart at 8am and arrive into Devonport at 10.00pm, giving more people the chance to experience the new ship," Mr Bacon said.

"After visiting Devonport for a day, Spirit of Tasmania III will depart for Melbourne on 4 January 2004, once again taking passengers along for the voyage. This will also give Melbournians a rare chance to see the ship that will travel between Sydney and Devonport.

"It's going to be a memorable journey and we invite all Tasmanians to join the celebrations," Mr Bacon added. "What a great way to start the New Year!"

"To add to the excitement, Spirit of Tasmania III will travel as close as possible along the East Coast of Tasmania where people will be able to wave to the vessel on its first trip to Devonport."

Adult fares for the special sailings are $170 for adults and $125 for children, which will include two meals. To book places on the special sailings, customers should call Spirit of Tasmania on 1800 777 462. Places are limited so bookings should be made as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Over 15,500 bookings have been recorded for the new Sydney/Devonport service.

Details for the voyages follow:

Friday 2 January 2004 Voyage
* Depart Hobart 8.00am
* Arrive Devonport 8.00pm
* 500 passengers
* Adult fare - $170
* Child fare - $125
* Brunch and dinner included
* No passenger cars will be carried
* Passenger cabins available on request at additional charge
*Coaches have been organised for passengers requiring transport back to Hobart. Please add an additional $20 onto the costs above for this service.

Sunday 4 January 2004 Voyage
* Depart Devonport 12.00noon
* Arrive Melbourne 10.00pm
* 500 passengers
* Passenger vehicles will be carried
* Adult fare - $170
* Child fare - $125
* Cars - as per standard fare schedule
* Light lunch and dinner included
* Passenger cabins available on request at additional charge

ends

For further information contact:
Simone Ferrier
Spirit of Tasmania
Manager Corporate Communications
Tel: 03 9206 6220